Comparison of traditional badminton waterfowl-feather shuttlecocks vs synthetic-feather shuttlecocks using different test modalities

Abstract Although the Badminton World Federation has approved the use of synthetic-feather shuttlecocks in international competitions, they have not been widely adopted. One reason for this may be that the impact of synthetic-feather shuttlecocks on players and their performance is unclear. This study aimed to determine the differences in characteristics between traditional waterfowl-feather and synthetic-feather shuttlecocks. This study involved conducting the following tests: 1) taking physical measurements of the synthetic-feather shuttlecock; 2) carrying out human tests; 3) conducting wind tunnel tests; and 4) performing 2D flight simulations. The synthetic-feather shuttlecock was significantly heavier and shorter. Its velocity immediately after impact was significantly lower, with greater altitude changes. It tended to experience less air resistance at 0° and 15°, but more at 45°. The results of the 2D flight simulations based on the wind tunnel tests showed that the synthetic-feather shuttlecock recorded a longer simulated travel distance. These results suggest that the synthetic-feather shuttlecock has a longer flight distance due to experiencing less air resistance during flight despite a lower initial velocity immediately after impact. Based on these findings, net players may find that the synthetic-feather shuttlecock comes at them at a lower velocity during gameplay, while hitters and line players may find that it travels further. Understanding these characteristics could facilitate the faster adoption of the synthetic-feather shuttlecock in international competitions, which could improve the sport's sustainability.